Windows 10 End of Life Management
– A Secure IT Transition
The Windows 10 End of Life Challenge
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, affecting over 1 billion devices globally.
After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, patches, or Microsoft support, exposing businesses to cyber threats, compliance failures, and operational risks. Organisations must act now to secure their data, ensure compliance, and transition smoothly to avoid costly disruption.
This transition presents several key challenges for businesses:
- Increased security risks – Unpatched vulnerabilities create opportunities for cybercriminals.
- Regulatory compliance concerns – Organisations handling sensitive data may struggle to maintain GDPR and ISO 27001 compliance.
- Hardware and software compatibility issues – Many existing devices won’t meet Windows 11 requirements, and some legacy applications may no longer function.
- IT infrastructure disruptions – Without a structured migration plan, system upgrades may lead to business downtime.
- E-waste management – Non-upgradable devices require responsible IT disposal to meet sustainability and compliance policies.
Download our Windows 10 End of Life guide
Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) Delay the Inevitable at a High Price
Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) offer temporary security patches for Windows 10 after October 2025, but they are an expensive, short-term fix. At $61 per device in year one, with costs doubling annually, ESU quickly becomes financially unsustainable.
While ESU protects against known vulnerabilities, it lacks new security features and proactive defences found in Windows 11, such as Zero Trust architecture, AI-driven threat protection, and hardware-based security. As cyber threats evolve, Windows 10 systems will remain increasingly vulnerable, posing compliance risks, security gaps, and software limitations.
With ESU support ending in October 2028, relying on it only delays the inevitable. Businesses must plan their Windows 11 transition now to avoid escalating costs, security failures, and operational inefficiencies.
What Are the Main Challenges in Upgrading to Windows 11?
Security & Compliance Risks
Windows 11 introduces advanced security controls, but legacy devices that cannot support these features create vulnerabilities. Businesses managing sensitive data must ensure their IT infrastructure meets GDPR and ISO 27001 compliance standards.
Hardware Compatibility Issues
Windows 11 enforces strict hardware requirements, including:
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
- Secure Boot
- Newer processors (Intel 8th Gen/AMD Ryzen 2000 or newer)
Many older machines do not meet these specifications, meaning businesses must replace or repurpose a significant portion of their IT infrastructure. A comprehensive IT asset audit helps determine which devices can be upgraded, redeployed, or securely decommissioned.
Software & Application Compatibility
Not all legacy applications are fully compatible with Windows 11, businesses should:
- Identify software that requires updates or patches for Windows 11 compatibility.
- Determine if older applications need replacing if no updates are available.
- Develop workaround solutions to prevent productivity disruptions.
A software compatibility review is essential to ensure a smooth transition and avoid operational risks.
How to Prepare for Windows 11 & Manage IT Assets Efficiently
A structured approach ensures a cost-effective, secure transition while minimising business risk.
Conduct an IT Asset Audit
Assess your IT infrastructure to determine:
- Which devices meet Windows 11 requirements and which need replacing.
- The residual value of legacy IT assets to recover costs.
- Potential redeployment strategies to extend device lifespan.
Review Software Compatibility
Not all business applications will function on Windows 11, a compatibility review ensures:
- Critical software is updated or replaced before migration.
- Operational disruptions are minimised, preventing productivity loss.
Securely Transition & Manage Data Risks
As part of the upgrade process, businesses must:
- Securely migrate data from legacy systems.
- Ensure compliance with GDPR and ISO 27001 through certified data erasure.
- Retire non-compliant devices safely to avoid security vulnerabilities.
IT Asset Disposal & Sustainable IT Management
Many devices will not meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements and must be retired securely to avoid security risks, compliance failures, and e-waste mismanagement.
Vyta provides secure, compliant IT asset disposal (ITAD) solutions to ensure non-compliant devices are handled responsibly:
- Retire legacy devices securely, eliminating security risks from outdated systems.
- Resell viable assets to recover value from decommissioned hardware.
- Refurbish and redeploy IT assets to extend their lifecycle.
- Recycle obsolete IT equipment in full compliance with environmental regulations.
We help businesses manage their transition efficiently, ensuring that every step—from assessment to retirement and disposal—is handled securely and sustainably.
to discuss how we can help you plan a smooth and secure transition.
